The following is a letter penned by Jim Stickney, OCFOA President, to the OCFOA membership on February 16, 2026. It is posted here for posterity and easy reference.
OCFOA Members:
As we come together and we get ready for a new season, I’m reminded of why this association exists. Our by-laws spell it out clearly, but the real meaning goes deeper: we are here to raise the standard of football officiating in Orange County. Not just by knowing the rules, but by showing what professionalism, integrity, and pride look like in action. That mission matters — and every one of us plays a part in it.
Each season, we step onto fields where young athletes are building habits and values that will shape their futures. They’re learning discipline, resilience, teamwork, and respect. And whether they realize it or not, they learn some of those lessons from us. Our presence sets the tone. Our preparation sets the expectation. Our consistency sets the example. That’s a responsibility worth embracing, and a privilege we should never take lightly.
Our bylaws give us structure, but you give this association its strength. The Executive Board can lead and support, but it’s the dedication of every official — from those working their very first scrimmage to those who have worn the stripes for decades — that makes OCFOA one of the most respected associations in California. When we show up ready, when we treat each other with respect, when we hold ourselves to the highest standard, we elevate the game and honor the legacy of this organization.
As we launch into this season, I want all of us to lean into the values that define OCFOA: professionalism, sportsmanship, competency, accountability, and continuous improvement. These aren’t just ideals on paper. They’re the reason coaches trust us, the reason schools rely on us, and the reason our association continues to grow in reputation and impact.
Thank you for the time you invest, the pride you take in your craft, and the example you set for the athletes and schools we serve. I’m energized by what lies ahead, and I’m proud to stand alongside each of you as we make this season our best yet.
Sincerely,
Jim Stickney – OCFOA President
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